Other Agents

Somatostatin (Octreotide) is used for patients with concomitant small bowel motility problems (eg, diarrhea and bacterial overgrowth). Somatostatin works by initiating a migration motor complex beginning in the small bowel, which agitates the gut, moving the bacteria further downstream and helps to sterilize the small intestine. It should be given as 50 to 100 |g sc at night before bed. However, metronidazole or other antibiotics should be given during the day to further address bacterial overgrowth. Somatostatin actually inhibits gastric emptying and hence daytime use would require concomitant prokinetics and administration should not directly precede meals. It can be very effective for treating dumping syndrome when given preprandially in this specific clinical setting usually observed postvagotomy or gastric surgery. There is no chapter on peptic ulcer surgery in this edition.

Did you ever think feeling angry and irritable could be a symptom of constipation? A horrible fullness and pressing sharp pains against the bladders can’t help but affect your mood. Sometimes you just want everyone to leave you alone and sleep to escape the pain. It is virtually impossible to be constipated and keep a sunny disposition. Follow the steps in this guide to alleviate constipation and lead a happier healthy life.